ERG’s EPD Ecosystem Quality Labeling Initiative

ERG will launch a coalition to continue the mission of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Construction Material Opportunities to Reduce Emissions (C-MORE) program, specifically the program’s efforts to improve the quality of EPDs. The coalition will establish a consistent and transparent reporting framework for construction material EPDs in support of efforts to scale the use of EPDs in procurement and policy.

Product- and facility-specific EPDs are being used in the construction sector to support procurement decisions based on a product’s embodied carbon. Despite adherence to international and product category-specific standards governing EPD development, there are still concerns related to the transparency, comparability, and quality of EPDs. These concerns generally fall into three main categories:

  1. Program operator governance and processes for developing PCRs.
  2. Content of PCRs and their effectiveness in ensuring EPD quality and comparability.
  3. Content of EPDs, including the reliability of primary data, adherence to relevant standards, and the ability to electronically transfer EPD data.

More robust processes are needed to prevent inadvertent mistakes and deter potential bad actors in a cost-effective and time-efficient manner.

As C-MORE’s lead consultant, ERG is committed to maintaining the momentum generated by the program and ensuring the U.S. construction industry leads in sustainable practices. ERG will collaborate with the American Center for Life Cycle Assessment (ACLCA), program operators, nonprofits, EPD generators, trade organizations, life cycle assessment consultants, construction entities using EPDs, and others to create a successful program, including a technical advisory group. ERG supports ACLCA’s role as the steward of relevant standards in the EPD ecosystem, including the PCR Open Standard.

ERG welcomes interested parties to reach out for more information and will establish a list of organizations that are supportive of this program. For more information and to learn how to get involved please use the form below!